DIY maintenance on Subarus-Imprezas especially

[tim]

Hi all:

I did a bit of Googling but couldn't come up with a clear answer. How
tough is working on a Subaru for a home mechanic? I'm looking to buy
a used one (probably Impreza) and it'll probably be out of warranty.
Is there anything that's especially difficult to work on compared to
other engines?

Thanks in advance!
Tim

 

[Hallraker]

Hi all:

I did a bit of Googling but couldn't come up with a clear answer. How
tough is working on a Subaru for a home mechanic? I'm looking to buy
a used one (probably Impreza) and it'll probably be out of warranty.
Is there anything that's especially difficult to work on compared to
other engines?

It's a modern vehicle, and like most modern vehicles the engine bay is
somewhat cramped. However, it's a longitudinal, rather than transverse
layout, so many components are easier to get to than on a standard front
drive car. I've never had many issues getting to things, although the spark
plugs can be a bit tricky. I had to try several tools before I found one
that actually gave me an angle to get the old plugs out.

-Matt

 

[hippo]

Hi all:

I did a bit of Googling but couldn't come up with a clear answer. How
tough is working on a Subaru for a home mechanic? I'm looking to buy
a used one (probably Impreza) and it'll probably be out of warranty.
Is there anything that's especially difficult to work on compared to
other engines?

<<It's a modern vehicle, and like most modern vehicles the engine bay is
somewhat cramped. However, it's a longitudinal, rather than transverse
layout, so many components are easier to get to than on a standard front
drive car. I've never had many issues getting to things, although the
spark plugs can be a bit tricky. I had to try several tools before I
found one that actually gave me an angle to get the old plugs out.

-Matt>>

Depends to what extent you expect to work on it. Routine services, brake
pads, hoses etc. are a doddle except plug access as stated. I prefer to
leave cambelt change, seals etc to someone else, but that's only every
100,000Km. Cheers

 

[TG]

Subaru's are one of the easiest vehicles I have ever worked on...at least
the normally aspirated versions. Anyone can do the routine stuff including
the timing belt, water and oil pump, cam seals, plugs,etc. TG

 

[Hallraker]

Subaru's are one of the easiest vehicles I have ever worked on...at least
the normally aspirated versions. Anyone can do the routine stuff including
the timing belt, water and oil pump, cam seals, plugs,etc. TG

True. I'm still amazed at how easy it was to swap the alternator out.
IIRC, it was 9 fasteners and two electrical connections. And at least 3 of
those fasteners were securing the plastic guard over the belt. Compare that
to my sister's old Pontiac, where I spent more time trying to locate the
fasteners than it took to do the entire swap on the Subaru.

-Matt